The Taliban administration has imposed a series of stringent restrictions on women in Afghanistan, significantly curtailing their freedoms and opportunities. Since taking power in August 2021, the Taliban has enforced measures that ban women from having their voices heard beyond the confines of their homes. These actions, justified under the guise of adherence to Islamic law or Sharia, have systematically stripped away women's rights and freedoms.
Women in Afghanistan have seen their liberties erode incrementally. Initially, the Taliban promised that teenage girls would be allowed to return to school once the curriculum was aligned with Islamic principles. However, these assurances have proven hollow as girls remain barred from education beyond the age of 12. Job prospects for women have also been severely limited, forcing many to abandon their aspirations.
The economic situation in Afghanistan is deteriorating daily, exacerbating the challenges faced by women. Shakila, a 24-year-old entrepreneur who opened a clothing store two years ago, has struggled amid the economic turmoil. Despite the hardships, she endeavors to maintain a semblance of normalcy and self-care.
"I will love myself and all of existence / I will meditate and express gratitude / I will iron my clothes and organize my room / I will get ready and do a face mask / I will go to the store and clean it with love / I will go shopping and buy clothes and mannequins / I will rearrange things and listen to a podcast / I will take care of myself (cook, write in my journal) / I will go to bed early at night." – Shakila
In Kabul, Zenat, a 55-year-old baker, earns meager wages, making only five Afghanis per loaf of bread. Meanwhile, Ala, a 28-year-old dental assistant and artist, has been compelled to seek alternative means to support her family financially. Soraya, a 29-year-old athlete, has been forced to abandon her dreams of becoming a professional athlete due to the restrictive environment.
The Taliban's patchwork of decrees has confined women to their homes, relegating them to domestic chores. Fridays are often spent on household tasks, further limiting their opportunities for personal growth and development. The pervasive restrictions have extinguished women's hopes and dreams across Afghanistan.
Zarina, a voice for the suffering women of Afghanistan, emphasized the importance of raising awareness about their plight.
"Because I wanted to be the voice of the suffering women of Afghanistan who are still fighting and striving in these difficult times. And also, so that their voices reach the world and make people aware of their situation." – Zarina
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